Glossary
G-5
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bar code density
Number of data characters that can be represented in a linear unit of measure. Bar code
density is often expressed in characters per inch.
bar code label
A label that contains a bar code symbol.
bar code symbology
A scheme for encoding data as bar code. Code 39, Codabar, UPC/EAN, and Interleaved
2 of 5 are examples of different symbologies.
battery pack
See lithium-ion battery pack.
baud rate
The number of discreet conditions or signal events per second. In RS-232 and RS-
422/485 systems, baud rate is the same as bits per second (bps).
binary file
A file that contains a sequence of 8-bit data characters or executable code. Compare to
ASCII text file. Binary files require special software for transmission.
boot
Usually means to invoke a bootstrap process, which involves building up a system from
some simple preliminary instructions or information. A boot invokes the BIOS boot
sequence, clears all memory, and performs a complete power-on self test (POST) to
ensure that the hardware and peripherals are operational. A boot initializes the system
hardware for use by the system firmware and loads the default configuration currently
stored in flash memory.
bridge
An internetworking device that incorporates the physical and data link layers of the OSI
model and allows you to connect networks or subnetworks with similar architectures.
broadcast
A type of transmission in which a message sent from the host is received by many devices
on the system.
cabled scanner
A wand, laser scanner, or other device that scans bar code information. A cabled scanner
is connected to a bar code reader or terminal with a cable rather than being built into
(integrated in) the reader or terminal.